Which foreign exchange program should I choose?

Question

I am a freshman in highschool right now and I want to go to Spain in my sophomore year and study for a year. I've looked through many different programs and I have came across YFU, Intrax. I don't know which one to choose though. Has anyone traveled with any of these programs?? Which program is safer or better?? Please help me decide which one travel with.

Answer 1

To start, make sure the program you select is listed on the CSIET website (www.csiet.org) -- that means it's certified to operate in the U.S. YFU is, Intrax isn't (at last as far as I could tell). You should also check with your school counselor for a recommendation. A program is only as good as its local representative. Generally speaking, AFS, Aspect Foundation, Rotary and YFU are reliable everywhere. Rotary is the cheapest, but most competitive.

The problem you may run into is timing. Many application periods have either closed or will do so soon for the 2008-2009 school year, especially if you are looking for scholarships. Organizations are now placing next year's students with host families. So, you will need to hurry for next year.

For lots of general info on becoming an exchange student, check with the on-line community at http://www.exchangestudentworld.com/

Good luck -- it's a fantastic experience!

Answer 2

YFU is a reputable program, and I've never heard of Intrax.  If you are set on going your sophomore year, you have to apply as soon as possible because these programs fill up quickly.  You can also check out AFS, which is another major, reputable program.  If you were open to going your junior year instead of your sophomore year, you could look into going with Rotary, but their deadline is in the fall, so you've already missed it for the coming school year.  Here are some websites you can visit for more info:

YFU: http://www.yfu.org

AFS: http://www.afs.org

Rotary: http://www.rotary.org/en/StudentsAndYout...

Answer 3

I went with a group called People to People Student Ambassadors.

Really changed my life.